Introduction
The LM7812 Voltage Regulator IC is a member of the popular 78XX series of fixed voltage regulators, designed to provide a stable +12V DC output. It is widely used in power supply circuits where a constant 12V output is required regardless of variations in input voltage or load conditions. The LM7812 can handle a maximum output current of up to 1.5A with proper heat sinking, making it ideal for medium-power applications in electronics.
This IC accepts an unregulated input voltage ranging typically between 14V and 35V and regulates it down to a fixed +12V output. It features internal thermal shutdown, short-circuit protection, and safe-area compensation, ensuring high reliability and safety in operation. Due to these built-in protections, the LM7812 is considered a rugged and dependable solution for voltage regulation in both commercial and industrial circuits.
LM7812 Voltage Regulator IC
The LM7812 is commonly available in packages such as TO-220, TO-92, and TO-252, making it adaptable for different design needs. Its simplicity, low cost, and wide availability have made it one of the most frequently used linear voltage regulators in power supply modules, audio systems, communication devices, and embedded systems. By using the LM7812, designers and hobbyists can ensure a noise-free and regulated +12V power source for their electronic components.
LM7812 Pinout
LM7812 Key Features
- Provides fixed +12V regulated output
- Maximum output current: up to 1.5A (with heat sink)
- Wide input voltage range: 14V to 35V
- Thermal overload protection
- Short-circuit protection
- Safe area compensation for reliability
- Easy to use with minimal external components
- Low cost and easily available worldwide
- Available in different packages (TO-220, TO-252, TO-92)
LM7812 Specifications/Characteristics
- Output Voltage: +12V (fixed)
- Input Voltage Range: 14V – 35V
- Maximum Output Current: 1.5A
- Output Voltage Tolerance: ±2%
- Dropout Voltage: ~2V (depends on current)
- Operating Junction Temperature: 0°C to +125°C
- Maximum Power Dissipation: varies with package & cooling
- Package Types: TO-220, TO-252, TO-92
Note: DATASHEET DOWNLOAD button is provided end of this article.
Pin Configuration of LM7812 Voltage Regulator IC
| Pin# | Pin Name | Pin Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Input | Unregulated input voltage (14V–35V) |
| 2 | Ground | Common ground (GND) reference |
| 3 | Output | Provides regulated +12V output |
More Circuit Layouts
Key Applications of LM7812 Voltage Regulator IC
- Fixed +12V power supply design
- Microcontroller and digital circuits
- Audio amplifiers and audio equipment
- Industrial automation systems
- Communication devices and radio systems
- Battery chargers and adapters
- Embedded systems and robotics
- Consumer electronics requiring +12V regulated supply
LM7812 Equivalent ICs / Alternatives
- LM7805 (fixed +5V regulator)
- LM7809 (fixed +9V regulator)
- LM7815 (fixed +15V regulator)
- LM317 (adjustable voltage regulator)
- L7812CV, KA7812, UA7812 (manufacturer equivalents)
- AMS1117-12 (low-dropout +12V regulator alternative)
(The pinout for certain ICs can vary from that of the LM7812).
Datasheet of LM7812 Voltage Regulator IC
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of LM7812 :
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